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Sara N. Garske, Assistant Vice President, Foundation Services

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Ms. Garske joined First Foundation Inc. in 2008 and is responsible for managing operations for family foundation clients and collaborating with their trusted advisors. In her role as Assistant Vice President of Philanthropy Services, she helps family foundations execute their philanthropic mission through strategic planning, effective grant making, and impact reporting. Her years of experience allow her to provide guidance to multi-generational families navigating their philanthropic journey. Previously, Ms. Garske worked in university advancement at Claremont McKenna College, The University of San Diego, and Chapman University. She has an extensive background in board management, private giving opportunities, program development and evaluation, fundraising, and event planning. Ms. Garske currently serves as the President of Orange County Advisors in Philanthropy. She is passionate about early childhood education and served on the Education Impact Council of the United Way of Orange County and served as Co-Chair of MIND Research Institute’s Orange County Leadership Council. She is a member of Southern California Grantmakers and Orange County Funders Roundtable. Ms. Garske received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Politics and Government with a minor in Business Administration from the University of Puget Sound, Tacoma, Washington. Sara Garske serves as assistant vice president for First Foundation’s foundation services team. In this role, she manages the operations of numerous family foundation clients, helping execute their philanthropic missions through effective grant making and scholarship programs.

Recent Posts

Wealth & Lifestyle Philanthropy Enjoy

Perspectives on Philanthropy: Year-End Giving

2 minute read

As we celebrate the holiday season and close out the end of another year, we are reminded of the things for which we are grateful. It also reminds us of the importance of giving back to those in our community who are less fortunate, as well as the charitable organizations providing the services to support those in need.  While recently volunteering at Bracken's Kitchen for their annual food drive, I was reminded of how simple..

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Wealth & Lifestyle Philanthropy Enjoy

Perspectives on Philanthropy: Engaging the Next Generation to Strengthen the Family

4 minute read

Our philanthropy services team recently made an interesting discovery about the importance of familial engagement when it comes to relationships, experiences, and overall family bonds.  

In working with clients participating in philanthropic efforts, we witnessed familial engagement around philanthropy also creates purpose-driven community change in youth. Said another way, it can serve as a common ground for multigenerational..

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Wealth & Lifestyle Philanthropy Enjoy

Diminishing the Achievement Gap During COVID-19

5 minute read

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many obstacles have been simultaneously impacting k-12 education, including internet access, food and housing insecurity, and mental health. Recent data sheds light on the shortcomings of the virtual and hybrid models. Students are falling behind, and the achievement gap is growing for minority and homeless students. Mental health issues and domestic abuse cases are on the rise. Students are “Zoomed..

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